We are living in an increasingly online world, and sales are no exception. According to Shopify, in 2022, it is projected that 21% of sales will be made online. By 2025, this number is expected to reach 24.5%. When we think about the convenience of services like Amazon Prime and overnight delivery, these numbers aren’t all that surprising. After all, over 60% of Americans make more than one online purchase every month.
With the rise in online shopping increasing every year, consumers have come to expect quick, on-time delivery. For many people, two-day shipping is no longer just a nice perk; it is an expectation. While consumers don’t have to think through the logistics of such expedited shipping, businesses do.
One of the most important aspects of the entire shipping process is last mile delivery. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at what that is and how businesses can optimize their own process for better service and happier customers.
What is Last Mile Delivery?
Also referred to as last mile logistics, last mile delivery is the final step in the delivery process. In this step, the package is delivered to its final destination, usually a customer’s doorstep or mailbox.
Challenges of Last Mile Delivery
While last mile delivery accounts for the final and even shortest step in the delivery process, it also typically accounts for the most expensive step. This high cost comes from a combination of fuel costs, driver salaries, complex routes, and other factors that add up quickly.
An inefficient last mile delivery process can result in frustrated customers. Depending on how long it takes for their package to arrive, they might even cancel their order altogether, or purchase somewhere else and then return their initial order. Alternatively, quick delivery doesn’t mean much if the package arrives damaged in any way. It is critical for companies to ensure that packages are delivered both on time and in tact.
Using a Local Courier for Last Mile Delivery
While major shipping companies dominate when it comes to last mile delivery, many businesses are surprised when they learn that there are more options (and often better) available for them. Many local courier companies offer last mile delivery services with competitive prices, excellent service, and fast delivery. Local couriers are much more flexible than big name companies, with the ability to personalize their services to make sense with your delivery needs.
Because local couriers are smaller than the national delivery companies, you can also expect better handling from couriers. Delivery drivers have a more personal connection with the businesses they partner with, so they take better care of your packages than national providers.
Utilizing a local courier for last mile delivery isn’t settling for second best. Couriers provide the same, if not better, services to businesses. They can provide real-time updates, signature upon delivery, same-day service, and more. Find a local courier near you and see how they can improve your last mile delivery times.
Last Mile Delivery in Northern California
Modern Express is proud to offer last mile delivery services to businesses in Mountain View, Redwood City, Morgan Hill, Santa Clara, San Jose, San Carlos, and other areas in Northern California. We have been supporting local businesses since 1951, and we’d love to support yours as well. If you are looking for a delivery partner and would like to learn more about how we can serve you, contact us today. Our team is available around the clock to answer your questions about last mile delivery or any of our other services.